10 Things to Keep in Mind When You Wake up Feeling Anxious
It happens to the best of us. Maybe we're procrascinating on a project and it's creeping up on us in our thoughts. Maybe you just wake up a little tired from too much happening the previous day and not getting enough sleep. Don't let it throw your day off. Or rather, LET IT, but don't offer any additional resistance.
1. Remember your gratitude.
You get to have another day of life! Even if you lose everything today, which you won't; you're still here and you get to try again. What are you grateful for today? Can you think of 50 things? How about 100? Try reframing the anxiety you feel and see if you can feel gratitude.
2. It's not that big a deal.
Don't sweat the small stuff; and it's all small stuff. That's a great book. Nothing is truly an emergency. Reacting to everything as one will rob you of your peace. Some things require immediate attention. Others don't. The feelings aren't that big of a deal. The thoughts aren't that big of a deal. Let it all just be and go.
3. Own your side of the street, but don't beat yourself up.
Are you feeling anxious about an argument in which you were responsible for? Something at work? Totally ok. The important thing is to acknowledge it. You did your best. Or maybe not. Either way, you'll try again. Be gentle with yourself.
4. Make your bed. Or make an idea list. Then make your bed.
That will help you start the day off on a productive note. Oh hey, I know what I'm doing after I make this list.
5. Be gentle with yourself and others.
This one is a repeat of some of the things I've already said, but you know what? That's okay. It's okay to be gentle with yourself. Some days you perform at 110%, some days you don't. Just acknowledge your own seasons, allow yourself to rest, and feed a little extra kindness into your heart toward yourself.
6. Try writing.
If you really can't shake BLAH, write 750 words; stream of thought; stream of consciousness; just let it all go on a piece of paper or on a computer keyboard. Does that help clear your mind to start the day on a brighter note? If it muddies the water, can you watch the muddied water until it becomes clear?
7. Go outside.
Leave your phone at home. If you're hard pressed with work responsibilities, do one important thing at work first, then take a little walk and get a breath of fresh air.
8. Schedule a meet with someone who makes you feel good.
Someone you can be 100% yourself around. Someone who makes you laugh. Don't have anyone like that in your life? Don't beat yourself up and call yourself unworthy. Instead, take that time with yourself. Cook a nice meal for yourself with lots of vegetables. Imagine hugging yourself as you sit down to eat and hold any feelings of fear, anxiety, and loneliness that come up in your space with a big loving hug.
9. Jump in really cold water.
Maybe a bit extreme, but sometimes that's the jolt you need. Let it go.
10. Smile.
To yourself and to others. This too shall pass. It's probably not a big deal.
No comments.